Ms. Janine Waines
HS Music Teacher
AIS has a wide variety of performance based and non-performance based options for students wishing to take music classes in high school. Students who want to learn to sing or already love singing can do so in choir class. Students interested in learning to play an instrument can select Instrumental Music. Those who are tech savvy can enjoy learning about music fundamentals through digital music in Music Technology classes. For students wishing to gain more knowledge in traditional Western Music theory, the music department also offers AP Music Theory every other year.
This year has been a wonderful year for the AIS choral students. Being able to have in person classes for most of the year has created a strong sense of community within the classroom as students have worked on developing their ensemble skills. Time was also spent getting to know each other better through personalised individual projects during online learn this spring. Performance highlights included preparations for the Virtual Winter Fair in December and Year End Assemblies in June.
Enjoying a Virtual Choir Concert
Tech Rehearsal for Virtual Winter Fair Recording
Practice , practice, practice...
Instrumental Music students developed basic music skills through the use of many different non wind band instruments this year. Students focused on rhythm learning through chair and bucket drumming; learned about musical line and melody while playing guitar; discovered the challenges and joys of ensemble playing for the Virtual Winter Fair; put their creativity and innovation to use in creating homemade instruments; and much more!
Music Technology introduces students to music fundamentals through the study and use of music technology. It features the use of sound systems, computers, and music software, such as Garageband, Audacity, Logic Pro, and Soundtrap, and basic recording equipment. The concepts addressed include, but are not limited to, music editing/composing, sequencing, and basic recording techniques. Some of the favourite projects this year included the creation of podcasts, radio commercials, remixes of popular songs and creating soundtracks for videos.